Salisbury PFLAG reveals community needs in 2023 LGBTQIA+ Climate Survey

SALISBURY, Md. – Salisbury PFLAG says significant work remains towards achieving equality and equity in Maryland, according to its 2023 Delmarva LGBTQIA+ Climate Survey. In the assessment, needs like housing, employment, health care access, and education were highlighted. The assessment also addressed what Salisbury PFLAG calls increased risks of discrimination, harassment, and violence.

According to the assessment, the Eastern Shore of Maryland was given a score of 54, out of a possible 100, for its communities’ inclusiveness towards LGBTQ+ individuals. Respondents generally responded positively to access to local government and public services.

However, respondents also noted dissatisfaction in terms of safety for LGBTQ+ individuals, support towards LGBTQ+ families, and police interactions. Participants also noted that they were not satisfied with available supports for LGBTQ+ parents, elders, transgender youth and adults. Respondents also ranked school safety for LGBTQ+ youth at a low level.

Access to health care for transgender youth is also dissatisfactory, according to respondents. Salisbury PFLAG says that a lack of providers, long waits for appointments, far travel distance, cost, a lack of knowledgeable providers, and even discrimination, could be to blame.

The survey was approved by the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Institutional Review Board. Salisbury PFLAG President Nicole Hollywood says the survey findings have already been reported to Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s LGBTQIA+ Affairs Commission. Hollywood adds the group plans to use their findings to further advocate for LGBTQ+ individuals on the Eastern Shore.